How to talk to partner about reconstruction?

Question fromSmith:
I'm single and worried about how future partners will deal with my reconstructed breasts. What's a good way to explain the scars, lack of feeling, etc?

Answers -Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D.
I think that when you are close enough to a partner to be considering having sex together that it is important to discuss your history of breast cancer, or if you had the mastectomy as a preventive measure, perhaps your high risk. I think you need to be honest about why you have scars, and also tell your partner that breast caressing may not bring the same pleasure as it used to for you.

On Wednesday, February 20, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Sex, Intimacy, and Breast Cancer. Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D. and Kara Nakisbendi, M.D.answered your questions about sexual side effects of breast cancer and breast cancer treatment, and what you can do about them.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.